Appointments

Vinay Malhotra

Outsourcing and technology services firm VFS Global has appointed Vinay Malhotra as chief operating officer of the Middle East and South Asia. Malhotra has more than two decades of experience in the travel industry. In his new role, he will oversee the company’s core visa business, key client relationships and business development. Ahead of joining VFS, he served at Emirates Airlines for more than 10 years, overseeing airport and commercial operations in the Middle East. Before that he worked at Swissair and Galileo.

Khaled Al Melhi

Technology outsourcing and data centre provider Injazat has selected Khaled Al Melhi as its chief executive officer. Injazat is fully owned by Mubadala, the investment arm of the government of Abu Dhabi. Prior to his appointment, Melhi served as chairman of Injazat. His experience and expertise in the ICT sector are seen as an advantage that will help drive and expand the company’s business.

Olivier Granet

AccorHotels has promoted Olivier Granet to the role of managing director and chief operating officer for the Middle East and Africa. He will manage the chain’s diverse portfolio and expansion strategies, particularly focusing on the economy and midscale segment. He will also develop and retain talent within the organisation and supervise the launch of new brands, products and services. He also plans to design new concepts in the food and beverage sector and spearhead the Planet 21 sustainability initiatives in line with the group’s 2020 goals.

James Duncan

Abu Dhabi-based retail and leisure developer Al Farwaniya has appointed James Duncan as its new chief project officer. Duncan is commissioned with leading an extensive programme to develop the capital’s Reem Mall, which will house the world’s largest indoor snow park when completed, alongside more than 450 retail, restaurants and entertainment venues. He has more than 35 years of experience in the construction industry and has successfully led the delivery of several multi-billion dollar projects in the UK, France and the Middle East.